Setting your water softener too high can lead to several negative consequences. Firstly, it can result in higher operating costs as the softener will consume more salt and water. This means you will need to purchase more salt and the water bill will increase due to the frequent regeneration cycles required to remove the excess minerals from the resin beads in the softener.
Additionally, setting the water softener too high can lead to the wastage of water. During the regeneration process, the softener flushes out the accumulated minerals from the resin beads. If the hardness is set too high, the softener will regenerate more frequently, leading to more water being flushed down the drain unnecessarily. This wastage of water not only impacts the environment but also adds to your water bill.
Furthermore, excessive regeneration cycles can put unnecessary strain on the water softener system, potentially leading to premature wear and tear. This can result in the need for more frequent maintenance or even the need for a costly repair or replacement of the system.
It’s important to note that the impact of setting your water softener too high may also depend on the type of plumbing in your home. If you have new copper plumbing, it is advisable not to run the water softener for at least the first few weeks of using water in your house. This is because the softener can potentially cause corrosion in the newly installed copper pipes. Allowing the water to flow through the pipes without the softener initially helps to establish a protective film on the interior surfaces of the pipes, reducing the risk of corrosion.
Setting your water softener too high can result in increased operating costs, wastage of water, and potential damage to your plumbing system. It is important to find the right balance and adjust the hardness setting based on your specific water quality and needs. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the system can help ensure optimal performance and prevent any costly issues down the line.